THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
MANAGING YOUR WEIGHT
Diet, exercise, and determination all play a part in effective weight manage-
ment. Your scale is the tool that lets you chart your progress, and measure your
success, whether your goal is weight loss, weight gain, or maintaining your
current weight.
Because weight varies, as explained below, focus on the progression and
sustained long-term changes rather than on exact day-to-day readings.
When you’re dieting and exercising, small, fluctuating weight gains and
losses are common.
Common Causes of Weight Fluctuations (during the
day, and day-to-day)
• Water retention and weight gain from consumption of large meals
• Water retention from salt and carbohydrate intake
• Muscle buildup (muscle weighs more than fat) from strenuous
resistance training
• Weight loss caused by dehydration due to illness, low fluid intake
or strenuous exercise
• Temporary weight gains and losses from menstrual cycle
